TRUE SPORT

Why do the True Sport Principles matter?

They help us build the sport we want!

The True Sport Principles express an approach to sport that the vast majority of Canadians already believe in and practice. Although widely embraced, these principles often go unspoken. So when they are violated — when people’s attitudes and actions threaten healthy and respectful competition — supporters of good sport can be caught off guard, unsure how to stand up for the sport they believe in.

The True Sport Principles are a rallying point for True Sport members — they are universal. The principles can be brought to life in any sport at any level, from playground to podium. An Olympic rowing squad can embrace these principles with the same sense of pride and purpose as an elementary school, an old-timers' league, or a community hockey arena.

For sport to be truly good and have the opportunity to make the greatest difference, all seven of these principles need to be in play at all times, working in perfect balance with one another.

Go for It

Always strive for excellence and rise to the challenge, but never at the expense of others. Discover how good you can be.

Play Fair

Play honestly and obey the rules, in letter and spirit. Winning is only meaningful when competition is fair.

Respect Others

Show respect for everyone involved in creating a sporting experience, both on the field and off. Win with dignity and lose with grace.

Keep it Fun

Find the joy of sport and have a good time. Keep a positive attitude and look to make a positive difference, on the field and in your community.

Stay Healthy

Place physical and mental health above all other considerations and avoid unsafe activities. Respect your body and keep in shape.

Include Everyone

Share sport with others, regardless of creed, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation or ability. Invite everyone into sport to make it more meaningful for the whole community.

Give Back

Always remember the community that supports your sport and helps make it possible. Find ways to show your appreciation and help others get the most out of sport.

Visit truesport.ca or talk to us about ideas to raise the dialogue on True Sport and ensure that True Sport Principles are part of our vision of sport in our community.

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In October, 2010 the Sport Alliance coordinated organization of a weekend long symposium to kick off action on True Sport in Mount Pearl. Click on the heading below for notes of various presentors.

Mount Pearl has had a long history of creating positive experiences for its youth in sport. Consequently implementing the values promoted by True Sport of Fun, Fairness, Inclusiveness and Genuine support of Excellence is a natural progression.Rather than simply promoting these values the goal is for all sports groups and the community live the values. In 2010 local leaders took the time to discuss and decide on actions that the sport community and the community at large could take to ensure that all youth have access to sport that is fun, fair, inclusive and encourages and supports excellence.

The True Sport Movement is powered by people like you … athletes, coaches, officials, organizers, parents, teachers, volunteers, citizens and community leaders. People who care about the positive values that sport embodies, like teamwork and commitment, and know that sport can transform lives and communities. True Sport is based on the belief that good sport can help build lasting strengths in individuals, as well as healthy, vibrant communities.

A three day True Sport Symposium was organized with the goal, “To mobilize the City of Mount Pearl to become a True Sport Community”, and to raise awareness of the True Sport Program throughout Newfoundland and Labrador and profile Mount Pearl as a sport friendly community.

The Forum segment included a presentation and discussion with Jennifer Keith, from the Centre for Ethics in Sport, and an inspirational address by Mount Everest Climber and Outdoor Educator T.A. Loffler, the symposium included a series of concurrent seminars interspersed throughout the day on the following topics:

1.Active Living for Seniors

2.Life Long Athletic Development

3.Pre-School – (Active Start)

4.Eat Great and Participate

5.Positive Parenting in Sport

6. Coaching for Fun, Fairness, Inclusiveness and Excellence

7.How Sport can reach out to Youth at Risk

8.Recreation Facilities for the Future

A Trade Show offered information on various sports, resources available, agencies, initiatives and even sport retailers, all related to sport and recreation. The Forum will be capped off by His Worship Mayor Randy Simms declaring Mount Pearl a True Sport Community.

There was also a "Try It Sports Day!" designed to so people of all ages could try a new or different sport without any cost or commitment.

For more information about how your group can live True Sport values, touch base with the Sport Alliance office - 748-6484 or write mpsportalliance@mountpearl.ca